The Bible tells of a man named Zebedee, whose sons James and John were two of Jesus' disciples-Matt.4:18-22. Zebedee was a fisherman by trade and probably a very good one-he and his grown sons earned a living from their business.But more importantly, the gospel accounts show that he must have been a successful father.
Sons often follow in the footsteps of their fathers.It's easy to imagine these two boys climbing aboard the sailboat with their dad as he taught them about the oars, sails, and nets. He certainly shared all he knew about wind and storms and how to find catch.Fishing requires tremendous patience, persistence, and determination-James and John would have observed these traits in their father as they worked alongside him.
A father is the first authority figure in a child's life. Being a dad is an enormous responsibility, because children base their perception of God on what they observe in their earthly father. If they witness a loving and godly example in the home, they will be predisposed to submit to God's sovereign authority when they are grown.
Zebedee spent a lot of time developing a strong relationship with his sons, and teaching them the lessons he had learned.He probably never realized that by preparing James and John to provide for themselves, he was really getting them ready for a great ministry.Bit his example and involvement with them built character qualities that enabled them to respond immediately whey they heard Jesus call,"Follow, and I will make your fishers of men"-Matt.19-20.
James and John followed Christ without reservation, or hesitation. And Zebedee watched them walk away, knowing he might never see them again .Like successful Christian parents today, this father had raised his sons to be upright, self confident young men.His reward was in witnessing them wisely step out from under his authority in order to serve the Son of God.
Raising godly children takes wisdom, effort and divine guidance.Zebedee did not have a special knack or secret method for it, he just followed his own Father faithfully. And remember, "Children base their perception of God on what they observe in their earthly father"
Your friend and brethren
Hellen Peralta